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A Rainey & Levine Thriller #4
Catch Me
A terrifying serial killer who just targets couples, and leaves taunting notes for the NYPD signed CATCH ME... At a loss, police request the help of doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, police friends and detectives on their own. Both have helped when cops' hands are tied, or in ways that even police forensics never imagined.
But this killer, a sharp shooter, is always a step ahead. He wears gloves and disguises, shoots victim pairs at random with an unregistered gun, and leaves no physical evidence or eyewitnesses. He's enraged to hear that David is also a crack shot, and intrigued with the couple's adopted little son, Jesse, almost one year old, dubbed by the media "the miracle baby," and already showing signs that he is as intuitive as his mother...
The killer draws closer, gripping New York City and the entire nation in horror, pulling Jill and David into the worst terror they have yet encountered.
But this killer, a sharp shooter, is always a step ahead. He wears gloves and disguises, shoots victim pairs at random with an unregistered gun, and leaves no physical evidence or eyewitnesses. He's enraged to hear that David is also a crack shot, and intrigued with the couple's adopted little son, Jesse, almost one year old, dubbed by the media "the miracle baby," and already showing signs that he is as intuitive as his mother...
The killer draws closer, gripping New York City and the entire nation in horror, pulling Jill and David into the worst terror they have yet encountered.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2014
127 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Schneider
17 books572 followersWheaton College, Norton MA (French Lit Major, Minor in Spanish & squeezed in Russian.)
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 29, 2014
The terrified toddler ran whimpering through the bushes in Central Park, covered in blood, hysterical – the two police on horseback who spotted him were shocked; but even more so when they discovered what he was running from. The Couples Killer had struck again, but one of the victims was still alive and was transported immediately to Madison Memorial Hospital in the company of her distraught little boy.
Doctors Jill Raney and David Levine were busy with the usual rush of delivering babies, coping with the emergencies which always seemed to occur in the night time hours with premature births – all normal for Madison Memorial; but they were horrified and definitely unprepared for the condition of the latest victim of New York’s Couples Killer…
Jesse, Jill and David’s adopted son and the darling “miracle baby” of the media was almost one year old; he was showing signs of extreme intelligence, mimicking the adults constantly with new words and melting the hearts of those around him. With him in the hospital’s child care centre, along with other staff’s children, Jill and David would pop in to see him whenever they had a spare few minutes. But with the Couples Killer on the loose, they decided to sleep at the hospital as well…
As the fevered activity of the killer accelerated, the bodies mounted and the danger came closer. David and Jill were helping the police with the collection of forensic evidence from victims – but this killer was clever. The only thing found at the scenes was a taunting note saying CATCH ME – and it seemed at the moment, they couldn’t. Would the frustrated police catch this psychotic killer before more bodies were found? Would the killer make his biggest hit of all?
This is another brilliant thriller in the Embryo series from author J.A. Schneider. I love the characters of Jill and David, the intensity of each plot, the pace and speed of the action – the continual building of the stories from the very first book through to this one; and the incredible twists and turns throughout. A highly recommended series, but one I feel that must be read from the beginning for the building of the full cast of characters to be a benefit to the reader. One of the best thriller series I have read in my opinion.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Doctors Jill Raney and David Levine were busy with the usual rush of delivering babies, coping with the emergencies which always seemed to occur in the night time hours with premature births – all normal for Madison Memorial; but they were horrified and definitely unprepared for the condition of the latest victim of New York’s Couples Killer…
Jesse, Jill and David’s adopted son and the darling “miracle baby” of the media was almost one year old; he was showing signs of extreme intelligence, mimicking the adults constantly with new words and melting the hearts of those around him. With him in the hospital’s child care centre, along with other staff’s children, Jill and David would pop in to see him whenever they had a spare few minutes. But with the Couples Killer on the loose, they decided to sleep at the hospital as well…
As the fevered activity of the killer accelerated, the bodies mounted and the danger came closer. David and Jill were helping the police with the collection of forensic evidence from victims – but this killer was clever. The only thing found at the scenes was a taunting note saying CATCH ME – and it seemed at the moment, they couldn’t. Would the frustrated police catch this psychotic killer before more bodies were found? Would the killer make his biggest hit of all?
This is another brilliant thriller in the Embryo series from author J.A. Schneider. I love the characters of Jill and David, the intensity of each plot, the pace and speed of the action – the continual building of the stories from the very first book through to this one; and the incredible twists and turns throughout. A highly recommended series, but one I feel that must be read from the beginning for the building of the full cast of characters to be a benefit to the reader. One of the best thriller series I have read in my opinion.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
May 7, 2023
CW: blood, violence, gun violence, miscarriage/traumatic loss of pregnancy, pregnancy, graphic birth descriptions, transphobia, misgendering, fatphobia, bodyshaming
Why are we allowing obstetricians to solve serial murder cases? Why are we letting obstetricians have autopsy notes of murder victims? WHY ARE WE GIVING SENSITIVE CRIME SCENE PHOTOS TO OBSTETRICIANS?
Why are we allowing obstetricians to solve serial murder cases? Why are we letting obstetricians have autopsy notes of murder victims? WHY ARE WE GIVING SENSITIVE CRIME SCENE PHOTOS TO OBSTETRICIANS?
August 8, 2020
What a fascinating read this was, I spent the afternoon reading it, saying just one more chapter which was foolish of me, ended up reading the book in one sitting, which is always a good sign. Another cracking read from Joyce. Her books never fail to grasp my attention from the very first page.
A serial killer is on the loose who is targeting couples, he’s also leaving taunting notes for the police signed CATCH ME.
He always seems to be one step ahead of the cops, leaving no evidence in his wake.
New York City is on high alert and the police seek the help of doctors Jill and David. To say more would spoil the plot.
An intriguing read with characters who are growing from strength to strength in this page-turning series.
Loved it and would definitely recommend.
A serial killer is on the loose who is targeting couples, he’s also leaving taunting notes for the police signed CATCH ME.
He always seems to be one step ahead of the cops, leaving no evidence in his wake.
New York City is on high alert and the police seek the help of doctors Jill and David. To say more would spoil the plot.
An intriguing read with characters who are growing from strength to strength in this page-turning series.
Loved it and would definitely recommend.
March 22, 2015
This is the 4th book in the Embryo series. It carried on from where book 3 left off. Ms Schneider doesn't disappoint with book 4 and makes your heart race from the 1st page to the last.
This time someone is killing couples. What has it got to do with Jill Raney and David Levine? Is there any cause to be concerned for baby Jesse? You will find out all the characters are still in this wonderful intriguing and fast paced book.
Can't wait to read book 5 - Silver Girl and see what more antics and heart racing things will happen to Jill and David and Baby Jesse.
This time someone is killing couples. What has it got to do with Jill Raney and David Levine? Is there any cause to be concerned for baby Jesse? You will find out all the characters are still in this wonderful intriguing and fast paced book.
Can't wait to read book 5 - Silver Girl and see what more antics and heart racing things will happen to Jill and David and Baby Jesse.
September 29, 2014
Title: Embryo 4: Catch Me
Author: J.A. Schneider
Publisher: J.A.S. & R.G.S.
Series: Embryo 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Embryo 4: Catch Me by J.A. Schneider....
Book Description....
"A terrifying serial killer who just targets couples, and leaves taunting notes for the NYPD signed CATCH ME... At a loss, police request the help of doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, police friends and detectives on their own. Both have helped when cops' hands are tied, or in ways that even police forensics never imagined.
But this killer, a sharp shooter, is always a step ahead. He wears gloves and disguises, shoots victim pairs at random with an unregistered gun, and leaves no physical evidence or eyewitnesses. He's enraged to hear that David is also a crack shot, and intrigued with the couple's adopted little son, Jesse, almost one year old, dubbed by the media "the miracle baby," and already showing signs that he is as intuitive as his mother...
The killer draws closer, gripping New York City and the entire nation in horror, pulling Jill and David into the worst terror they have yet encountered. "
What I loved about this novel....
Wow, this was a very thrilling series...hope you have kept up with this authors Embryo's 1-2-3 series because if you haven't you have missed a good series. Embryo 4 was this authors fourth novel and all I can say is wow, what a good ending that Embryo 4 gave the readers. This author really knows how to tell a story and once you pick it up the read you will not want to put it down until the end. Why is this? The author knows how to keep your attention in such a unique way with all the tension in this action paced read.
All of the characters were so richly developed when it seems that each one comes alive right there on the pages. I loved how this author gives extra details that made each scene along with conversation very complete and special to the read. The two main characters Jill and David are so supportive and good to each other along with the love of their son Jesse. I don't want to leave out those friends who were the co- workers of the hospital (loved how they supported each other ) and police department. As the story goes on we find Jessie(a baby that was developed outside of the uterus) has been adopted by Jill and David and to no ones surprise this one year old is super smart and at the end only proves that point in what he was able to convey to his mom. The hospital Madison Memorial where all this took place wants to show 'Jesse' off. Why was that? Now to find out way you will need to read the earlier series to find out however, I will share a little... because of what had happen with 'Jesse' this will greatly get the publicity and hopefully 'gain additional research money to develop artificial wombs' for the hospital. Be prepared for a read of many bloody bodies as we find this killer( referred to as "The Couples Killer" leaves notes ...'Catch Me.'
With all the work in this hospital that is going out around them suddenly Jill and David are being targets of this crazy psychopath. Will they be able to take this bad person down and keep their son, hospital friends and the citizens safe. Well, this is way I say again you must pick up this series as well as the other previous series 1-3 to see how this dramatic take down will come about.
What I especially liked about the read....
As in the other series the two main characters are helping once again the local police where we again see 'Jill' is the real helper in this case with all of her smartness. I loved how this author was able to bring in the subject of PTSD which is called by extreme trauma and stress and even the experience of a military veteran who copes with the after fact of the mind and experiences of the war. Now, I don't want to tell too much more other than to say you must pick up this wonderful read and see for yourself how this author will bring it all out to you. You will find it a very interesting captivating thriller read and in the end we get a good ending and it's my understanding that there will be another Embryo series. Would I recommend these series....YES!
Author: J.A. Schneider
Publisher: J.A.S. & R.G.S.
Series: Embryo 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Embryo 4: Catch Me by J.A. Schneider....
Book Description....
"A terrifying serial killer who just targets couples, and leaves taunting notes for the NYPD signed CATCH ME... At a loss, police request the help of doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, police friends and detectives on their own. Both have helped when cops' hands are tied, or in ways that even police forensics never imagined.
But this killer, a sharp shooter, is always a step ahead. He wears gloves and disguises, shoots victim pairs at random with an unregistered gun, and leaves no physical evidence or eyewitnesses. He's enraged to hear that David is also a crack shot, and intrigued with the couple's adopted little son, Jesse, almost one year old, dubbed by the media "the miracle baby," and already showing signs that he is as intuitive as his mother...
The killer draws closer, gripping New York City and the entire nation in horror, pulling Jill and David into the worst terror they have yet encountered. "
What I loved about this novel....
Wow, this was a very thrilling series...hope you have kept up with this authors Embryo's 1-2-3 series because if you haven't you have missed a good series. Embryo 4 was this authors fourth novel and all I can say is wow, what a good ending that Embryo 4 gave the readers. This author really knows how to tell a story and once you pick it up the read you will not want to put it down until the end. Why is this? The author knows how to keep your attention in such a unique way with all the tension in this action paced read.
All of the characters were so richly developed when it seems that each one comes alive right there on the pages. I loved how this author gives extra details that made each scene along with conversation very complete and special to the read. The two main characters Jill and David are so supportive and good to each other along with the love of their son Jesse. I don't want to leave out those friends who were the co- workers of the hospital (loved how they supported each other ) and police department. As the story goes on we find Jessie(a baby that was developed outside of the uterus) has been adopted by Jill and David and to no ones surprise this one year old is super smart and at the end only proves that point in what he was able to convey to his mom. The hospital Madison Memorial where all this took place wants to show 'Jesse' off. Why was that? Now to find out way you will need to read the earlier series to find out however, I will share a little... because of what had happen with 'Jesse' this will greatly get the publicity and hopefully 'gain additional research money to develop artificial wombs' for the hospital. Be prepared for a read of many bloody bodies as we find this killer( referred to as "The Couples Killer" leaves notes ...'Catch Me.'
With all the work in this hospital that is going out around them suddenly Jill and David are being targets of this crazy psychopath. Will they be able to take this bad person down and keep their son, hospital friends and the citizens safe. Well, this is way I say again you must pick up this series as well as the other previous series 1-3 to see how this dramatic take down will come about.
What I especially liked about the read....
As in the other series the two main characters are helping once again the local police where we again see 'Jill' is the real helper in this case with all of her smartness. I loved how this author was able to bring in the subject of PTSD which is called by extreme trauma and stress and even the experience of a military veteran who copes with the after fact of the mind and experiences of the war. Now, I don't want to tell too much more other than to say you must pick up this wonderful read and see for yourself how this author will bring it all out to you. You will find it a very interesting captivating thriller read and in the end we get a good ending and it's my understanding that there will be another Embryo series. Would I recommend these series....YES!
March 7, 2016
I saw this book on Twitter, the unusual covers in the Embryo series caught my eye. Even though I don’t normally read thrillers, the reviews were fantastic, so I thought what have I got to lose?
Just sleep.
This book kept me up past midnight, the action is non-stop and the story intense from the first pages. Loved the characters but what really struck me was the skillful juxtaposition of good and evil throughout the book, embodied in doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, their amazing son Jesse and a deranged killer. The author deftly pivots from the killer’s malevolent mindset to the boundless love Jill and David have for their son, and warm camaraderie with hospital colleagues. This thread runs through every chapter, ratcheting up the suspense. In one scene in the hospital cafeteria, Jill, David and their colleagues discuss the “Couples Killer” unaware that he is watching them from across the room.
Jill and David feverishly work to solve the case, becoming targets of the “Couples Killer” in the process. Against this ominous backdrop, the hospital is planning a major symposium to showcase their one-year-old adopted son Jesse, a miracle baby developed outside of a uterus.
A well-written novel with a riveting story line, great characters and tension you can cut with a knife.
Just sleep.
This book kept me up past midnight, the action is non-stop and the story intense from the first pages. Loved the characters but what really struck me was the skillful juxtaposition of good and evil throughout the book, embodied in doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, their amazing son Jesse and a deranged killer. The author deftly pivots from the killer’s malevolent mindset to the boundless love Jill and David have for their son, and warm camaraderie with hospital colleagues. This thread runs through every chapter, ratcheting up the suspense. In one scene in the hospital cafeteria, Jill, David and their colleagues discuss the “Couples Killer” unaware that he is watching them from across the room.
Jill and David feverishly work to solve the case, becoming targets of the “Couples Killer” in the process. Against this ominous backdrop, the hospital is planning a major symposium to showcase their one-year-old adopted son Jesse, a miracle baby developed outside of a uterus.
A well-written novel with a riveting story line, great characters and tension you can cut with a knife.
October 16, 2014
Jill and David are back. Just about time for Jesse's first birthday and the media are at it again. They want to see how Jesse is doing after his first year. He is advanced in some areas and quite normal in others. Jill is worried trouble will start again. She and David have done everything they can to keep life normal. Someone else has other ideas though. A man is killing couples and trying to entice Jill and David to get involved. What can they do when a patient is part of the killers plans?
I am such a fan of this series. It's action filled and extremely well written. I love that David and Jill are committed to raising Jesse out of the limelight. I enjoy this couple very much. You'll enjoy the story of this couple and their friends who make up hospital staff and officers. It's easy to picture these people in your local area and part of your life. Now their plan is to be a family. A normal family regardless of how Jesse came to be. Get this one and read the entire series. It's worth your time and money.
I found no issues in this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's such a well written book you'll wanna share it. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
I am such a fan of this series. It's action filled and extremely well written. I love that David and Jill are committed to raising Jesse out of the limelight. I enjoy this couple very much. You'll enjoy the story of this couple and their friends who make up hospital staff and officers. It's easy to picture these people in your local area and part of your life. Now their plan is to be a family. A normal family regardless of how Jesse came to be. Get this one and read the entire series. It's worth your time and money.
I found no issues in this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's such a well written book you'll wanna share it. ~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~
March 7, 2016
Sometimes a book is a five star read because you start reading and just can't put it down. It may not go down in history, but it took you for a ride, got your adrenalin flowing, and left you satisfied at the end. That's how I would describe the Embryo series by J. A. Schneider. All the clichés come to mind... can't look away... train wreck... accident waiting to happen.. These books are quick reads because everything about them, except the story, is known. We all watch television; we all read books. We're hip to the world around us. I read somewhere that using clichés is to be avoided, but sometimes these familiar expressions say just what needs to be said.
In this 4th book in the series, there is a serial killer that ultimately sets his sites on Raney and Levine. Once again, baby Jesse plays a prominent role.
This series begs to be read in order so as to preserve the underlying story. It is both medical thriller and police procedural with a bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
I really enjoyed reading CATCH ME and I do recommend it to anyone who appreciates the adrenalin rush that reading can provide. Now I'm off to read #5 in the series. I expect I will be posting a review of SILVER GIRL in just a few days.
In this 4th book in the series, there is a serial killer that ultimately sets his sites on Raney and Levine. Once again, baby Jesse plays a prominent role.
This series begs to be read in order so as to preserve the underlying story. It is both medical thriller and police procedural with a bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
I really enjoyed reading CATCH ME and I do recommend it to anyone who appreciates the adrenalin rush that reading can provide. Now I'm off to read #5 in the series. I expect I will be posting a review of SILVER GIRL in just a few days.
September 15, 2014
I purchased my copy of "Embryo 4 ~ Catch Me" the minute that I received notification that it was available, started reading it that night and finished it within 24 hours. I LOVED it!
This is such a brilliant series. I have followed the characters from the beginning and feel like they're old friends now.
The author writes in a fast paced, fun, intriguing way that pulls the reader right into the story. Chapters are short which makes you keen to keep on reading until you reach the conclusion.
I loved watching how the characters supported each other in this book. Jill and David have such a compassionate relationship and their love for their adopted son, Jesse, shines throughout.
I am delighted to hear that the story will be continuing into a Fifth book. I will be clicking as soon as soon as it hits Amazon.
J.A. Schneider is a top favourite author of mine and I can highly recommend this series, it's fab!
This is such a brilliant series. I have followed the characters from the beginning and feel like they're old friends now.
The author writes in a fast paced, fun, intriguing way that pulls the reader right into the story. Chapters are short which makes you keen to keep on reading until you reach the conclusion.
I loved watching how the characters supported each other in this book. Jill and David have such a compassionate relationship and their love for their adopted son, Jesse, shines throughout.
I am delighted to hear that the story will be continuing into a Fifth book. I will be clicking as soon as soon as it hits Amazon.
J.A. Schneider is a top favourite author of mine and I can highly recommend this series, it's fab!
October 10, 2014
Hard to put this one down. The "Couples Killer" was deviating from his previous murders. He shot and killed a man and only wounded the woman with him. Then he changed his m.o. again. Why? What changed? Now he's stalking David and Jill. Who was this man? What set him off and what did he want? Thrilling and action packed.
January 12, 2015
Enjoyable
I have read this series through and have enjoyed them all. Looking forward to seeing Jesse grow up and what his future holds.
I have read this series through and have enjoyed them all. Looking forward to seeing Jesse grow up and what his future holds.
April 25, 2021
A serial killer
His 3rd attack made him a serial killer, because he targeted couples, but something was different about the 3rd killing. They weren't a couple, but friends taking a walk with the woman's 4 year old son. For another, the killer is a marksman and would not have gotten distracted, not even by the presence of the 4 year old - who ran away from the danger to get help for his mommy...and who would remember something later that would help. His mommy was an Iraq war vet, a field combat nurse close to the front lines, married to another soldier - one who was killed after she was sent home for getting pregnant. She struggles with PTSD...plus, she herself, as well as all the other medical and nursing personnel, had too get every bit as good with guns as those in combat.
The killer doesn't leave people alive - unless he wants to.
Like most serial killers, he gets off on killing. He wants attention. Gets angry unless someone focuses solely on him. Wants to supplant people more popular than he is. Wants to test anyone with marksman skills and prove himself better. Uses others. And uses disguises, so it is a long time before they know what he looks like...which wouldn't have happened except for his landlady getting ticked off at him nearly setting his apartment on fire...and seeing the things in his apartment that are so weird she wants to talk to Jill, not the cops, at first.
Jesse will soon be one year old, and the hospital plans a symposium where some of the experts who saw him as a newborn will see his progress now. But symposium security is a constant worry, esp for Jill, who has a bad feeling about the whole thing. Beth, the Iraq war vet, had adopted an embryo, and when she found out it "took," she had stopped by a maternity shop. The timing of this ties in with the story. The shooting killed the unborn child.
Beth is still recovering at the time of the symposium, and Jill invites her to come. This turns out to be a good thing, and there is a history behind the shooter and Beth, discovered once the DNA and prints from the apartment had identified him. Beth had been told that he had died, but he obviously was alive, and intent on pursuing her...as he had been when they were in Iraq and he was supposed to be guarding the medical/nursong personnel.
The excitement of the colleague who presents for Jill and David, and the little games the head doctor plays with him, the photographers, and the participants' engagement level, help detract from what will be Jill and David's final confrontation with the killer innthe kitchen just behind them.
We also find out more about how Jill knows so much about police work.
The killer gets IMO what is coming to him in a place that is very appropriate. The story ends on a happy note.
As usual, nonstop action from beginning to end.
His 3rd attack made him a serial killer, because he targeted couples, but something was different about the 3rd killing. They weren't a couple, but friends taking a walk with the woman's 4 year old son. For another, the killer is a marksman and would not have gotten distracted, not even by the presence of the 4 year old - who ran away from the danger to get help for his mommy...and who would remember something later that would help. His mommy was an Iraq war vet, a field combat nurse close to the front lines, married to another soldier - one who was killed after she was sent home for getting pregnant. She struggles with PTSD...plus, she herself, as well as all the other medical and nursing personnel, had too get every bit as good with guns as those in combat.
The killer doesn't leave people alive - unless he wants to.
Like most serial killers, he gets off on killing. He wants attention. Gets angry unless someone focuses solely on him. Wants to supplant people more popular than he is. Wants to test anyone with marksman skills and prove himself better. Uses others. And uses disguises, so it is a long time before they know what he looks like...which wouldn't have happened except for his landlady getting ticked off at him nearly setting his apartment on fire...and seeing the things in his apartment that are so weird she wants to talk to Jill, not the cops, at first.
Jesse will soon be one year old, and the hospital plans a symposium where some of the experts who saw him as a newborn will see his progress now. But symposium security is a constant worry, esp for Jill, who has a bad feeling about the whole thing. Beth, the Iraq war vet, had adopted an embryo, and when she found out it "took," she had stopped by a maternity shop. The timing of this ties in with the story. The shooting killed the unborn child.
Beth is still recovering at the time of the symposium, and Jill invites her to come. This turns out to be a good thing, and there is a history behind the shooter and Beth, discovered once the DNA and prints from the apartment had identified him. Beth had been told that he had died, but he obviously was alive, and intent on pursuing her...as he had been when they were in Iraq and he was supposed to be guarding the medical/nursong personnel.
The excitement of the colleague who presents for Jill and David, and the little games the head doctor plays with him, the photographers, and the participants' engagement level, help detract from what will be Jill and David's final confrontation with the killer innthe kitchen just behind them.
We also find out more about how Jill knows so much about police work.
The killer gets IMO what is coming to him in a place that is very appropriate. The story ends on a happy note.
As usual, nonstop action from beginning to end.
August 28, 2017
I liked this book until I got to the end. It was too predictable that it would happen that way. I have seen it too often in various tv programs. Now this was the first Embryo book I read, so I was not aware of the main characters, their capabilities and relationships, nor the baby who obviously has an unusual development. There was a lot of background information missing that I am sure would have helped a lot in understanding how two doctors had such firearm capabilities that they could aid in the apprehension of the perpetrator. I am going back to the Embryo #1 book of the series so I can fill in the holes for me. I would recommend that others wanting to read this series follow them in the order written. I read this one first thinking that many series of books do not have to be read in order...the book is about one case and once you get to know the investigators, the books are pretty independent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2018
"He weighed forty pounds, and his little skinned knees stung as he ran, terrified. Thorns in the brush caught his shorts. The sun was gone and it was getting darker, colder. He struggled forward, his breath coming fast in mewling little cries. The blood on his tee shirt made it stick to his skin but he was unaware as ahead, suddenly he saw someone running. His heart beat so hard that his vision blurred as he thrashed to the clearing."........... These are the opening sentences to this detective thriller. It kept me turning the pages quickly!
March 15, 2019
Interesting premise but the writing wasn’t fantastic and too many characters were introduced and too quickly. Even in the epilogue they felt the need to name a character by first and last name because there were so many
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January 28, 2020Great read
I chose this rating because it portrays the inner workings of a major hospitals day to day, with an added twist. Murder, mystery, drama, and an ing love story. I love the suspense, not knowing if someone will live, or die.
I chose this rating because it portrays the inner workings of a major hospitals day to day, with an added twist. Murder, mystery, drama, and an ing love story. I love the suspense, not knowing if someone will live, or die.
September 6, 2020
A little disappointed as I was expecting better from this author. Feel as though it could have been edited better. The story line was good but just struggled reading it . A fair read but not her best.
December 13, 2019
Riveting
If you like tension building, "I can't wait to put it down" mysteries, send this book is for you. Includes a great side story about an amazing little boy.
If you like tension building, "I can't wait to put it down" mysteries, send this book is for you. Includes a great side story about an amazing little boy.
May 25, 2020
I’m really enjoying this series.
September 20, 2020
Killers in Their Midst
Jesse is turning one year old and a symposium is scheduled to share him with Doctors from around the world. The hospital is busy and a Killer stalks couples.
Jesse is turning one year old and a symposium is scheduled to share him with Doctors from around the world. The hospital is busy and a Killer stalks couples.
July 13, 2022
Embryo 4
Wow, wow, wow! What a story! I think I have to stop now. Nothing e!Lee is getting done in my life!
Wow, wow, wow! What a story! I think I have to stop now. Nothing e!Lee is getting done in my life!
June 29, 2023
I really enjoyed it, I like the writing style and I have read the others books too. I look forward to read the next one.
March 24, 2015
Embryo 4: Catch Me is probably my favorite out of the four books in the series I have read so far.
David and Jill have adopted the embryo baby - Jesse and it's almost his first birthday. The hospital is planning a special conference to have the doctors who reacted with Jesse while he was still in his artificial womb explain all the ways he responded. And those who met Jesse shortly after he was born will get to see him again.
David and Jill are very protective of him. David wants the public to know that he is just like any other kid and Jill is once again worried by all the publicity. In the previous three novels, Jesse's birth and IVF was a very controversial topic and there were a lot of protests.
Meanwhile another killer is on the move; this time targeting couples. David and Jill are helping the police again, having established a great policy of preserving everything from the victims that come to their hospital. One victim in particular, Beth, a veteran who had been pregnant, survives after losing her baby and actually becomes a friend of David and Jill's and the other OB-GYN docs.
Both Jill and David prove once again their detective sleuthing skills with insight. Jill is as wary as before but stronger and more determined to protect her family.
David and Jill's teamwork/family determination works becomes even more solid with each progressive novel.
Jesse at a year old is cute as ever, funny and even helps in his own way to help bring down the couples killer.
A very satisfying read. Once again I am disciplining myself to not jump into book 5 in the series just yet so that I can savor the enjoyment of the series. I am looking forward to reading other J.A Schneider's work as she creates what I consider to be "delicious" fiction. She is a master story teller.
David and Jill have adopted the embryo baby - Jesse and it's almost his first birthday. The hospital is planning a special conference to have the doctors who reacted with Jesse while he was still in his artificial womb explain all the ways he responded. And those who met Jesse shortly after he was born will get to see him again.
David and Jill are very protective of him. David wants the public to know that he is just like any other kid and Jill is once again worried by all the publicity. In the previous three novels, Jesse's birth and IVF was a very controversial topic and there were a lot of protests.
Meanwhile another killer is on the move; this time targeting couples. David and Jill are helping the police again, having established a great policy of preserving everything from the victims that come to their hospital. One victim in particular, Beth, a veteran who had been pregnant, survives after losing her baby and actually becomes a friend of David and Jill's and the other OB-GYN docs.
Both Jill and David prove once again their detective sleuthing skills with insight. Jill is as wary as before but stronger and more determined to protect her family.
David and Jill's teamwork/family determination works becomes even more solid with each progressive novel.
Jesse at a year old is cute as ever, funny and even helps in his own way to help bring down the couples killer.
A very satisfying read. Once again I am disciplining myself to not jump into book 5 in the series just yet so that I can savor the enjoyment of the series. I am looking forward to reading other J.A Schneider's work as she creates what I consider to be "delicious" fiction. She is a master story teller.
October 12, 2014
Embryo 4 continues the story of Jill and David and is just as action packed and thrilling as the first three.
There is a new killer out there, 'the couples killer' as he strikes down couples. Jill and David get pulled into the case when a pregnant woman, and victim of the couple's killer survives.
I continue to be impressed at the unique story line and the amazing character development. I remember reading the first book and watching Jill and David's relationship just developing and now here they are, married and with an adopted son who turns 1 in this 4th installment. Their relationship is what everyone dreams of filled with love, understanding and passion. They are each others anchor in stressful situations.
As the serial killer becomes braver and the killings keep coming, David and Jill work closely with the police to bring this madman to justice. A few close calls, and putting their own lives on the line, the doctor duo does what it takes to bring the bad guys to justice. They are careful, but they are not afraid of putting themselves out there if it means saving innocent people.
A riveting, perfectly paced medical thriller that is a smooth read. Schneider sure has a talent for hooking you right in and keeping you interested until the end. I know I have a difficult time putting the book down until I am done.
I enjoy, as always, seeing where David and Jill are headed and hope to read many more stories about this crime fighting doctor duo in the future!
There is a new killer out there, 'the couples killer' as he strikes down couples. Jill and David get pulled into the case when a pregnant woman, and victim of the couple's killer survives.
I continue to be impressed at the unique story line and the amazing character development. I remember reading the first book and watching Jill and David's relationship just developing and now here they are, married and with an adopted son who turns 1 in this 4th installment. Their relationship is what everyone dreams of filled with love, understanding and passion. They are each others anchor in stressful situations.
As the serial killer becomes braver and the killings keep coming, David and Jill work closely with the police to bring this madman to justice. A few close calls, and putting their own lives on the line, the doctor duo does what it takes to bring the bad guys to justice. They are careful, but they are not afraid of putting themselves out there if it means saving innocent people.
A riveting, perfectly paced medical thriller that is a smooth read. Schneider sure has a talent for hooking you right in and keeping you interested until the end. I know I have a difficult time putting the book down until I am done.
I enjoy, as always, seeing where David and Jill are headed and hope to read many more stories about this crime fighting doctor duo in the future!
May 23, 2016
This is the first one in this series that makes me classify it as slightly scifi. Although the circumstances of Jesse's existence were always a bit scifi-ish, they weren't so far beyond the scope of what science can do today -
I liked that this one wasn't just another person obsessed with Jesse and that more time had passed between the last crisis and this one, because it would have been hard to continue to suspend my disbelief that Jill and David could end up involved in yet another serial killer's sights.
While there were times that I wanted to shake Jill for being so impulsive, like when she is insisting she should also have a gun, it was understandable she should feel that way. Overall, I really enjoyed this one though.
I liked that this one wasn't just another person obsessed with Jesse and that more time had passed between the last crisis and this one, because it would have been hard to continue to suspend my disbelief that Jill and David could end up involved in yet another serial killer's sights.
While there were times that I wanted to shake Jill for being so impulsive, like when she is insisting she should also have a gun, it was understandable she should feel that way. Overall, I really enjoyed this one though.
October 7, 2014
I have been privileged to have been asked to review all 4 of the Embryo books. Book 4 continues the action! Jill and David once again help the police catch a killer. This time the killer is taunting David to "Catch Me". Little Jesse is turning one during all this. We have watched him grow! Ms Schneiders writing draws you into the action. You can imagine yourself as a bystander watching Jill and David play with Jesse, just itching to get your hands on him. You feel David's tension as Jill is out on the streets and he's waiting to hear she is safe. You can imagine Jill's fear as she realizes the dangers around them. The story is a fast paced medical thriller, that will keep you turning the pages until you find out who the Catch Me killer is and the significance in the name. Ms Schneider's writing style makes everything come alive. If you haven't read her books, please read these! You won't regret it!
March 31, 2015
Jesse the baby that was grown and farmed in a fake womb is about to celebrate his birthday with a big conference and party with doctor’s coming from around the world. Jill and David are not happy about it, but they know scientifically necessary to parade Jesse in front of the world before they can celebrate his birthday in their little family. The reader sees more of Jesse’s development. Their hospital jobs as doctors bring them in to the sphere of a killer. ‘The Couple killer’ sees David and Jill and wants to best them. He taunts David and the police with ‘Catch me’. What follows is a cat and mouse game between the illusive killer and David and Jill.
The attention to detail and the medical jargon that the author uses make this story a book worth reading. An action packed thriller that keeps you glued to the pages as you wonder how far this killer will go to achieve his twisted mind’s ends. A very enjoyable read.
The attention to detail and the medical jargon that the author uses make this story a book worth reading. An action packed thriller that keeps you glued to the pages as you wonder how far this killer will go to achieve his twisted mind’s ends. A very enjoyable read.
August 25, 2015
A sniper is killing couples and leaving taunting notes for the NYPD saying, ‘Catch Me.” The killer then focuses on Doctors Jill Raney and David Levine, and their adopted son Jesse, the Miracle Baby.
When the killer shoots a pregnant Iraq war vet, killing her unborn child, the case becomes personal for Jill and David, and they are determined to get him. But, will he get them first?
Embryo 4: Catch Me by J. A. Schneider is a horrific tale of a demented man who kills for sport, and a family determined to end his spree once and for all. The author weaves medical knowledge and in depth trips into the human mind into a thriller that will have your heart pumping until the last page. A first-rate thriller that you won’t be able to put down.
When the killer shoots a pregnant Iraq war vet, killing her unborn child, the case becomes personal for Jill and David, and they are determined to get him. But, will he get them first?
Embryo 4: Catch Me by J. A. Schneider is a horrific tale of a demented man who kills for sport, and a family determined to end his spree once and for all. The author weaves medical knowledge and in depth trips into the human mind into a thriller that will have your heart pumping until the last page. A first-rate thriller that you won’t be able to put down.
March 23, 2016
Catch Me (Embryo: A Raney & Levine Thriller, Book 4) by J.A. Schneider Catch Me (Embryo: A Raney & Levine Thriller, Book 4) by J.A. Schneider is about the Couples Killer as the press called a serial killer who taunted the police with notes left at the scene.
David Levine & Jill Raney are well-developed characters. They have helped when the police have been at a loss. They have been targeted by this disguised killer & it's a race against time to catch him before he kills one of them.
This is an intense suspense-filled thriller. I gave it five stars.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N...
Read 12-21-15
David Levine & Jill Raney are well-developed characters. They have helped when the police have been at a loss. They have been targeted by this disguised killer & it's a race against time to catch him before he kills one of them.
This is an intense suspense-filled thriller. I gave it five stars.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N...
Read 12-21-15
November 17, 2014
Ms. Schneider doesn't disappoint with the fourth book in the Embryo series. A killer is targeting couples and one of the victims becomes their patient. As the police are trying to solve the case, they ask Jill and David to help. Next thing they know the killer wants to play a game of Catch Me with them. As their adopted son, Jesse's first birthday approaches, the media is anxiously waiting to see him and how he is growing. Being in the spotlight again only adds to the game for the killer. An exciting read that keeps your attention from the first page to the last. I can't wait for more in this series.
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